Rapid urbanisation a risk: Minister Tripathy

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Date: 27 September 2011 Minister for Physical Planning and Works Hridesh Tripathy today stressed the need to manage urbanisation to mitigate the effects of climate change. Speaking at a programme organised by the Department of Urban Development and Building Construction, UN-Habitat and other partner organisations to mark World Habitat Day, Tripathy said, “Urban population is growing due to availability of facilities and opportunities, but it lacks proper management.” He added, “Climate change is affecting water resources, therefore, along with increasing urbanisation, people should also focus on mitigating the effects of climate change.” He said all Nepalis had to maintain economic discipline and integrity to contribute to the country’s development. Tulasi Prasad Sitaula, MoPPW secretary, said 20 per cent Nepalis live in urban areas. “Along with management of basic infrastructure and facilities, we should also pay attention to mitigating the effects of climate change,” Sitaula said. Kishor Thapa, secretary, Election Commission, said, “Along with data and figures publicised by experts and organisations, we should also conduct research to mitigate effects of climate change.” Mahendra Subba, directorgeneral, DUDBC, said Nepal was witnessing the effects of climate change, adding, “The government had launched various programmes to minimise the impacts caused by rapid urbanisation.” Bhusan Tuladhar, South Asia regional technical adviser at UN-Habitat, said, “Activities in urban areas are contributing to the emission of greenhouse gases and increasing the effects of climate change, therefore we need to launch environment preservation programmes.” Source: The Himalayan Times